The definition of light is nothing short of complex. At the most basic light is a type of energy called electromagnetic radiation. So it has an electrical component and a magnetic one. And then photons get involved. Humans can see the difference in photon energy levels. This effect is color. And that is technical enough for today.

The way our eyes are constructed light and its energy don't just go to the visual cortex in the brain. Nerves from the retina also go to the hypothalamus. This is important because the hypothalamus is a small organ that regulates several life-sustaining functions such as the control of our autonomic nervous system, our energy levels, cycles of rest and activity, just to name a few. The incoming light waves also effects our pineal gland, which works to regulate our behavior patterns. The energy of light and color is an energy to take notice of in our daily living.

How we as humans respond to color is a deep and interesting science. Add to it that few people will see colors exactly the same. I might see more yellow in orange and you might see more red. Age and aging also impact how we see colors. Our color preferences and cultural influences also affect how we respond to color. There's more to color than what we might think.

Next post I want to talk more about the various factors that impact how we respond to color and ultimately how we use it in our nomes, places of work and our lives in general.

I recently returned from a trip to Hong Kong. Although this trip was to spend time with my granddaughter and her parents, I did manage to get out for some photos. The color of the buildings, especially all the apartment buildings, is sure to catch your eye.

My daughter lives in the New Territories, but we did go to the island for an afternoon. This photo is from that afternoon at the Hong Kong Botanical Gardens located in the mid-lands, half way up the peak. The day was warm and humid with overcast skies. Besides all the plants and animals featured at the Botanical Gardens you are surrounded by these fantastic apartment buildings all of them tall and colorful.

One of the things about Hong Kong that always catches my attention is the colors of all the buildings. I never tire of the colors. Pink, aqua, green, blue and more all standing side by side. Add to that the overcast and hazy days and the colors take on soft, muted tones.

It's an amazing region with its own special beauty and some of the best food you will ever have. If you are fond of cityscapes, pictures of them can make a worldly addition to your home.